On September 11, a Ropes & Gray team secured a significant victory on behalf of Veolia Energy Boston, Inc. in the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts.
Affirming a 2016 decision by the state Appellate Tax Board and denying the Boston Board of Assessors’ appeal, the court ruled that Veolia will be refunded $1.96 million in personal property taxes paid to the city of Boston. The court concluded that Veolia’s system of underground steam pipes was considered machinery and exempt from taxation.
“There is long-standing precedent in Massachusetts supporting manufacturers like Veolia, and we are pleased that the court recognized that in its ruling,” said tax partner Kat Saunders Gregor.
Veolia is represented by a Boston-based team led by Ms. Gregor, litigation associate Erin Macgowan, and tax counsel Elizabeth Smith.
To view the decision, please click here.